Global perspective Human stories

UN mission in Kosovo disappointed by media attacks on legal framework panel

UN mission in Kosovo disappointed by media attacks on legal framework panel

The United Nations mission in Kosovo today expressed disappointment at attacks in the press on members of the committee defining structures of provisional self-government.

The Joint Working Group on the Legal Framework for provisional self-government is "close to the finish line, although some issues remain to be resolved," said the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) in a statement issued today. It added that all of the members "have demonstrated great expertise and tremendous commitment" to Kosovo's future.

"There will be varying opinions about the legal framework once it is completed," UNMIK said, "but it will clearly serve as the basis for real, meaningful self-government in all the essential areas of life, while maintaining international support for Kosovo."

Stressing that the legal framework is essential to this year's elections, UNMIK said any delay might affect preparations for elections, hurting all people in Kosovo. The Mission urged all those involved to stay engaged until the end and support completion of the process "in a constructive spirit."